Streatham Redskins remain top of the English National Ice Hockey League South with four wins out of four after a convincing 6-1 home win against Cardiff Dragons last Sunday, writes Jason Cobb.

With league rivals Invicta only managing a draw away at Milton Keynes, Streatham will be looking to stretch their lead when they welcome Bracknell to the High Road this Sunday.

"I'm looking for another win," said Streatham head coach Dean Birrell.

"They're a useful side, but we mustn't imagine that they will be coming to Streatham simply to get beat. Being top means every team is out to get you - therefore we mustn't take anything for granted."

Cardiff took the lead after dominating the opening period of play, but soon Redskins found their rhythm and took control.

A powerplay equaliser came from Wayne Trunchion, set up by a defence-splitting pass down the centre from Joe Johnston. An unassisted effort from Fred Carnegy took Streatham 2-1 ahead.

The second period was spoilt by penalties, most of which were called against Streatham. This didn't stop the home side from firing rubber at the Dragon's net. Two early efforts were washed out, before first Trunchion and then Richard Hardy handed Streatham a 4-1 lead.

Finding four unanswered goals in the final period was always going to be difficult for the Dragons.

Their lack of ice time was there to see as Streatham stretched ahead with a goal-of-the-season contender from local hero Johnston. Robert Blazowski hit home a short handed effort seconds later, giving Streatham a 6-1 victory.

"This was a big win for us," said Birrell. "Last season we lost this fixture 7-0, but today we came out worthy winners.

"The first period was tight but once we got back on level terms, our superiority began to show.

"Our new import, Craig Metcalf, along with returning Redskin James Tanner, made their home debuts and I think our supporters were very happy with what they saw.

"This leaves us top of the league with maximum points, which is all the more satisfying as Invicta were held to a draw."